Orange trees are able to grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. However, if planting within zone 9a, select a cold-hardy variety of orange tree, such as the sweet or naval orange, or an early ripening variety, such as the Hamlin or Marra orange. If possible provide the tree with a southwestern exposure and be prepared to extend occasional protection from cold weather if temperature fall below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 4 hours (this is technically a hard freeze). Protect orange trees from frost by trapping heat from the ground. Ideally, the entire tree should be covered with a blanket or cloth. If the tree is too large to cover, securely wrap the trunk of the orange tree with blankets from the ground to the first main branching. Remove all mulch from the surrounding area - bare dirt radiates more heat. In fact, while we are on the topic of mulch, don’t ever use it around citrus trees. Period. Citrus trees are prone to foot rot, which causes peeling bark and rot rot. Mulch only exacerbates this problem.
Damage - During a frost ice crystals will form on the tree and the fruit. Severely frost damaged woody parts of the plant will appear dark-brown in color and water soaked. Young trees can die from this - but, fortunately, mature trees rarely do. Any fruit on the tree will become damaged as well. Ice crystals actually form within the orange peel, which will cause the fruit top dry out. Oranges immediately removed from the tree can be squeezed for juice or eaten. If left on the tree, the fruit will deteriorate within a couple of weeks.
References:
University of California: Frost Protection for Citrus and Other Tropicals
University of Florida IFAS Solutions for Your Life: Fruit Crops
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